This "theodolite", a surveying instrument, was owned by Gen. Epaphras Hoyt (1765-1850) of Deerfield, Massachusetts, who made the box in which it is stored. Theodolites were used to measure horizontal and vertical angles. Epaphras Hoyt was, in addition to his work as a surveyor, a major general in the Massachusetts militia, an author, postmaster, justice of the peace, register of deeds, and sheriff.